The value of a great mentor

Today I was supposed to have a meeting with my mentor, Hans. Unfortunately I had to cancel due to a project coming up that needed all the time, I have, in order to get prepared for a workshop next week. It bums me out, but its part of the game, when you are self-employed: The client wins.

Anyways, I’m very fortunate to have a mentor like Hans. Mentor/mentee relationships was something I learned the value of, while I was at Microsoft, and it has always been a huge inspiration to me. If you as a mentee is willing to invest what it takes to create a meaningful relationship, there’s just no end to what you can get out of it.

Hans is a great guy too. And personality is key here. I often hear that a mentor should be someone senior with a lot of experience etc. etc. That’s true. But if the chemistry isn’t there, it’s not worth your time.

Hans listens. But more importantly, Hans asks. He’s a seasoned veteran within the IT industry and also a great coach. He points out the mistakes I make and do so in very direct and honest terms. But he also demonstrates a fundamental belief in what I’m trying to achieve and as such he’s a huge booster of energy for me.

That’s why its killing me when I have to cancel a session with him. Because Hans and what he’s doing for me is the proof of the potential in having a great mentor.